Massive bone allografts in the treatment of pathologic fractures due to bone metastases

Background and Objectives: Pathologic fractures due to disseminated metastases are common and often involve major long bones, where the metastasis is responsible for wide bone erosion that is equivalent to major bone loss. Stabilization of these fractures necessitates tumor excision and reconstruction of the destructive metastatic process. Methods: Massive allografts were used either as intercalary or 'composite' grafts (allografts and regular prostheses) in 17 patients. Results: Fourteen patients could ambulate independently after surgery, and nursing of the remaining three became feasible and less painful. Conclusion: In the event of pathologic fractures due to metastatic bone diseases associated with major bone involvement, massive bone allografts offer an inexpensive, adjustable, simple solution.